This project will develop a methodology and build capacity to support indigenous communities in the Amazon rainforest in three countries affected by illicit drug crop cultivation (Bolivia, Colombia and Peru), to monitor biodiversity through the early detection of illegal forest activities and to obtain better economic deals through payments for ecosystem services. This work is expected to contribute to tackling the loss of biodiversity through illegal activities and building capacity in developing countries to combat crime in the context of a “green recovery” from the COVID-19 pandemic. The project will develop a low-cost method using acoustic devices for biodiversity monitoring which will help indigenous communities to monitor and protect the rainforest and/or national park on which they are depending for their income. Such acoustic monitoring systems will enable real-time detection of illegal activities by indigenous communities, which are affected by illegal forest activities and illicit drug crop cultivation and trafficking. The effectiveness of such monitoring will be measured by implementing robust impact assessments, which -in turn- will deliver the necessary evidence for these communities to negotiate agreements or projects that would pay for ecosystem services delivered by these communities (Payments for Ecosystem Services, PES).